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- Walking in the Fear of the Lord: The Church at Peace
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 30 2025 | Acts 9:27-31 KEY VERSE: “Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers" Acts 9:31 (NIV) MESSAGE: After Saul’s transformation and the easing of persecution, the church experienced a season of peace and growth. Their foundation was the fear of the Lord—a reverent awe and devotion to God. This deep respect, coupled with the encouragement of the Holy Spirit, brought strength and unity to the believers. As individuals and as a church, living in the fear of the Lord fosters humility and dependence on Him. It reminds us to prioritise God’s will over our own and rely on His Spirit for guidance and encouragement. Seasons of peace are opportunities for spiritual growth and preparation for the challenges ahead. The church today is losing its way. We are gradually losing our reverent fear of God and the things of God. This contributes to the current condition of the church. Believers must pray for a renewed sense of reverence for God in our lives. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What role are you playing to ensure that the Church is at peace? What actions can you take to facilitate the reverent fear of God return to the church? Is your acting and inaction contributing to the peace of the church? Re-evaluate your actions. PRAYER: Lord, teach me to live in awe of You. May Your Spirit strengthen and encourage me to walk faithfully and bring glory to Your name. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 150: 1 Samuel 12 - Samuel’s Farewell Speech DAILY word study: THE FEAR OF THE LORD The Greek word translated as “fear” in Acts 9:31 is phobos, derived from the verb phobeō, meaning “to put to flight” or “to terrify.” While phobos can imply fear or dread, in the New Testament—especially when tied to God—it refers to a profound reverence, awe, or deep respect for His presence, authority, and holiness. In Acts 9:31, “fear of the Lord” means living in reverence of God’s greatness. The Greek word phobos points to deep respect that shapes how we live, not fear that drives us away. This kind of fear draws us closer, guiding our actions with wisdom, just as it did for the early church. In the Bible, phobos often means that the more you know God, the more you honour Him. It’s not fear that pushes you away, but reverence that draws you closer. This deep respect, as Proverbs 9:10 says, is the start of wisdom, and it made the early church strong and fruitful. Reflection: If we desire spiritual maturity, we must embrace a deep reverence that keeps us surrendered and listening. A church that fears the Lord doesn’t chase popularity—it pursues faithfulness.
- Encouragers in the Faith: The Role of Barnabas
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 29 2025 | Acts 9:27-30 KEY VERSE: “But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him." Acts 9:27 (NIV) MESSAGE: Barnabas played a crucial role in bridging the gap between Saul and the apostles. By vouching for Saul’s transformation, Barnabas demonstrated the importance of encouragement and advocacy within the body of Christ. His faith in God’s work in Saul’s life opened the door for Saul’s ministry. We are called to be encouragers like Barnabas, lifting others and affirming God’s work in their lives. Sometimes, our words or actions can be the catalyst that helps someone step into their calling. Encouragement builds unity, trust, and confidence among believers. Do you have a Barnabas in your life, or are you a Barnabas yourself? Instead of being the reason why someone will give up their calling or even abandon their mission, decide to be a Barnabas. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Look for ways to encourage someone today. PRAYER: Lord, make me an encourager like Barnabas. Help me to see and affirm the work You are doing in the lives of others. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 149: 1 Samuel 11 - Saul’s First Victory DAILY word study: BROUGHT The Greek word translated as "brought" is agagō (ἀγαγὼν), derived from agō (ἄγω), which means “to lead,” “to bring,” or “to carry.” Barnabas didn’t just suggest Saul to the apostles—he led him there. The verb shows a purposeful action, not a casual mention. It was deliberate, personal, and bridging. In a moment of hesitation and fear, he brought him. He stood in the gap and carried the burden of Saul’s acceptance. Reflection: Who needs you to lead them forward today? Bringing someone closer to purpose may be the boldest form of encouragement.
- Overcoming Fear: Trusting God's Plan in Difficult Times
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 28 2025 | Acts 9:23-27 KEY VERSE: “When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple." Acts 9:26 (NIV) MESSAGE: Saul faced suspicion and fear from the disciples in Jerusalem. Despite his transformation, his past actions caused others to doubt him. Yet, human fear or scepticism did not hinder God’s plan for Saul. Through Barnabas’ intervention, Saul was welcomed into the fellowship of believers. We may also encounter times when others doubt our intentions or struggle to trust us because of our past. In such moments, we must rest in God’s plan and trust Him to work in the hearts of those people. God’s purposes are not limited by human opinions or misunderstandings. If God spoke to Ananias concerning the “terrorist” Saul so he could accept him, He could speak to anyone concerning you. Ask God to help you overcome fear and to trust in His timing. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Trust God’s timing and put your faith in Him. He who has called you is faithful. Depend on God for help in difficult times; he who has called you also watches over you and guards you jealously. PRAYER: Lord, help me to trust in Your plan, even when others doubt or misunderstand me. Teach me to walk in faith and rely on Your guidance. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 148: 1 Samuel 10 - Saul Anointed DAILY word study: TRIED The word tried in Acts 9:26 comes from the Greek verb ἐπειράτο (epeiratō), a form of πειράζω (peirazō), which means “to attempt, to test, to try with effort or purpose.” In this verse, Saul didn’t casually approach the disciples. He made a real effort—intentional, repeated, and hopeful. This word captures the tension of transformation. Saul had changed, but others weren’t ready to receive that change. Still, he tried—because he believed in what God had done. Reflection: You may not be welcomed right away. But don’t stop showing up, reaching out, or trusting God to speak on your behalf. Rejection may delay access, but it doesn’t cancel your calling.
- Empowered to Proclaim
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 27 2025 | Acts 9:21-22 KEY VERSE: “Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah." Acts 9:22 (NIV) MESSAGE: After his conversion, Saul wasted no time proclaiming Jesus as the Messiah. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, he grew stronger in his faith and understanding of the Gospel, confounding those who opposed him. His boldness and knowledge were evidence of God’s work in his life. In our walk with Christ, the Holy Spirit strengthens us to live boldly for Him. Whether we share the Gospel, serve others, or face opposition, we can rely on His power to equip and sustain us. Like Saul, our growth in faith comes through abiding in God and stepping out in obedience. Heaven supports us when we step out in faith and act in obedience to God’s Command to preach the Good News to the world. We must daily pray for the Spirit’s strength in our lives. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Determine today to realign your mission with God’s purpose. Support and resources are available for the assignment God has given you; step out in faith and act in obedience. PRAYER: Lord, strengthen me by Your Spirit. Equip me to proclaim Your truth with boldness and live faithfully for You. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 147: 1 Samuel 9 - Saul Chosen as King DAILY word study: POWERFUL The word powerful in Acts 9:22 comes from the Greek verb ἐνδυναμόω (endynamóō), which means “to be made strong, to be empowered, to grow in strength.” It is related to the word dynamis, from which we get “dynamite”- not explosive by force, but energised by God’s Spirit. This word shows us that Saul’s strength didn’t come from education or charisma. It came from the Holy Spirit actively working in him, developing boldness, clarity, and unshakable conviction. To be powerful in God’s eyes isn’t about control. It’s about being equipped and energised to proclaim Jesus. Reflection: You don’t have to manufacture boldness. The same Spirit that empowered Saul is available to you. Ask and grow strong.
- Transformed to Testify
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 26 2025 | Acts 9:19-20 KEY VERSE: “At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God." Acts 9:20 (NIV) MESSAGE: Saul’s transformation was immediate and profound. From a persecutor of Christians to a preacher of Christ, his life became a testimony of God’s grace and power. His encounter with Jesus didn’t just change his beliefs—it completely redirected his life’s purpose and mission. This transformation reminds us that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. When we encounter Jesus, He doesn’t just forgive our sins; He empowers us to live differently. Similarly to Saul's experience, our lives can serve as a compelling testament to His love and mercy for those around us. Anyone who truly encounters the Saviour immediately should desire to share their story with others. Like Saul, he immediately began preaching in the synagogues, the same places where he was going to terrorise believers. Our passion after encountering Jesus should drive us to preach the transformative power of the Saviour’s love to others. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on how God has transformed your life. Who has heard your story and who must you tell it to today? Spread His love to others and become the arms with which He reaches others also to transform their lives. PRAYER: Lord, thank You for Your transformative power in my life. Help me to live as a testimony of Your grace and proclaim Your name boldly. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 146 : 1 Samuel 8 - Israel Asks for a King DAILY word study: AT ONCE The phrase at once in Acts 9:20 comes from the Greek word εὐθέως (eutheōs), meaning “immediately, straightaway, without hesitation.” It expresses quick, decisive action that follows deep conviction. Saul didn’t delay. The moment his vision was restored and his heart was changed, he moved. He began to proclaim Jesus, right there in the synagogues where he had planned to persecute. When Jesus transforms you, obedience should not wait. Eutheōs is the rhythm of lives shaped by grace—hear and respond, know and move. Reflection: What truth has God already made clear to you? Don’t delay. Take action. Share boldly—at once.
- Restored Vision: Seeing God's Purpose Clearly
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 25 2025 | Acts 9:18 KEY VERSE: “Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptised. " Acts 9:18 (NIV) MESSAGE: Saul’s physical sight was restored as a symbol of his spiritual awakening. His blindness represented his lack of understanding, but as the scales fell, he clearly saw the world and God’s purpose for his life. This moment marked a turning point as Saul embraced his calling and was baptised in faith. Sometimes, we may struggle with spiritual "blindness," unable to see God’s plans or recognise His presence in our lives, even though our physical sight may be intact. Through prayer, Scripture, and the work of the Holy Spirit, God removes the “scales” from our eyes, enabling us to see His purpose. Sight is everything when it comes to achieving purpose. As it’s been said, if you cannot see it, you cannot achieve it. This seeing is both with the physical eyes and your mind’s eyes. You must be able to conceive the vision in your spirit to achieve it. God is interested in making the vision clearer by curing our spiritual blindness. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Your sight is what you see physically and, more importantly, spiritually. Engage God through His word and prayer, and let that spiritual eye also be open. For with that, you will see His purpose. PRAYER: Lord, restore my vision. Help me see Your plans for my life and walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 145: 1 Samuel 7 - Samuel Leads Israel in Repentance DAILY word study: SCALES The word scales in Acts 9:18 is translated from the Greek word λεπίδες (lepides), meaning thin flakes or small layers that cover or obscure. The root λεπίς is used for things like fish scales or flakes of skin—anything that creates a barrier over the surface. In Saul’s case, the “scales” were both literal and symbolic. They pointed to a deeper spiritual blindness—an inability to recognise truth or see God’s direction clearly. God didn’t just heal Saul’s eyes. He removed the barrier to his vision, his purpose, and his future. These “scales” can take many forms—pride, unbelief, fear, bitterness, or self-dependence. When God removes them, you begin to perceive life through divine clarity. Reflection: Ask God to remove whatever is dulling your spiritual sight. Because when He clears your vision, He also redirects your path.
- Ananias' Faithfulness: Stepping Out in Obedience
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 24 2025 | Acts 9:17 KEY VERSE: “Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, ‘Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Acts 9:17 (NIV) MESSAGE: Ananias is a powerful example of faithful obedience. Though he feared Saul, a known persecutor, he trusted God’s instruction and went to lay hands on him. His act of faith not only restored Saul’s sight and played a pivotal role in Saul’s transformation into the apostle Paul. It is baffling that Ananias calls Saul “Brother Saul.” I am very sure Saul himself would be confused in his very vulnerable state; remember, he was blind and at the mercy of the same people he had persecuted before. God may ask us to step out in obedience, even when it feels uncomfortable or risky. Like Ananias, we may be called to extend grace or serve someone who challenges us. When we trust God and follow His leading, we become vessels of His healing and restoration in the lives of others. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you willing to trust God's instruction and direction when it hurts and when it is uncertain and dangerous? Know that if the instruction and direction are from Him, he will protect you and provide a way out. Ask God for courage to obey His call. PRAYER: Lord, help me to trust You even when obedience feels difficult. Use me as Your instrument to bring healing and hope to others. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 144: 1 Samuel 6 — The Ark Returned to Israel DAILY word study: SENT The word sent in Acts 9:17 comes from the Greek verb ἀποστέλλω (apostellō), which means “to send forth with a mission” or “to commission.” It is the same root for the word apostle and implies intentionality, authority, and divine backing. In the verse, Ananias says, “Jesus... has sent me.” This wasn’t a casual visit—it was a divinely assigned task. God didn’t just inform Ananias; He commissioned him. To be sent by God means you're acting under His authority, with His timing, and for His purpose. You don’t just go—you are sent with weight and direction. Reflection: When God sends you, He equips you. Like Ananias, you may not feel fully ready, but the One who sends also prepares. Obey, knowing you're on a mission, not on your own.
- Chosen for His Purpose
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 23 2025 | Acts 9:12-16 KEY VERSE: “But the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel." Acts 9:15 (NIV) MESSAGE: God’s declaration to Ananias about Saul is a powerful reminder of His sovereignty. Despite Saul’s past as a persecutor of the Church, God chose him as His instrument to carry the gospel to the nations. This choice wasn’t based on Saul’s merit but on God’s grace and purpose. Many times, we disqualify ourselves from God’s selection list and feel unworthy to be called upon to do a task for the furtherance of the Kingdom. And almost all the time, those who, by human standards and by measuring with the world’s yardstick, are not suited for the job are the ones God uses for his glory. Like Saul, our backgrounds and CVs do not seem to position us as candidates for enrollment into God’s workforce. But let’s think again with the benefit of the example from scripture. God has a unique purpose for each of us. Despite our past mistakes or perceived inadequacies, He calls us to be His instruments in the world. Embracing this calling requires faith and a willingness to trust God’s plan, even when we don’t fully understand it. Surrender to God’s purpose for your life. We do not qualify to be called, but when He calls us, He qualifies us. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: When you feel down and out, feel very unqualified for the job, and all your past experiences bring you to the point of writing yourself off, remember this: the One who selects is God, and He looks at our hearts. PRAYER: Lord, thank You for choosing me for Your work despite my imperfections. Help me to embrace Your calling and trust in Your plan for my life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 143: 1 Samuel 5 — The Ark and Dagon DAILY word study : CHOSEN The word chosen comes from the Greek word ἐκλεκτός (eklektos), which means “picked out” or “selected for a purpose.” It suggests a deliberate choice, not a random selection. In Scripture, being chosen means more than being preferred—it means being assigned a purpose. When God called Saul “my chosen instrument,” He revealed that Saul had a specific role in God’s redemptive plan. God didn’t choose randomly. He selected deliberately, knowing what He would accomplish through Saul. Divine choice carries weight—it comes with direction, responsibility, and grace to fulfil it. Reflection: God’s choice isn’t tied to your past performance. He selects, prepares, and positions you. When you accept that, you stop striving and start following. You walk, not to prove yourself, but to fulfil His assignment for your life.
- The Power of Personal Petition
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 22 2025 | Acts 9:10-11 KEY VERSE: “The Lord told him, ‘Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying." Acts 9:11 (NIV) MESSAGE: After his encounter with Jesus, Saul was left blind and helpless, but he began to pray. God revealed this to Ananias, showing the power of intercession in Saul’s transformation. Saul’s prayers reached heaven, and God’s plan for his restoration was set into motion, involving Ananias’ obedience. This passage reminds us of the importance of personal petition to God; Saul prayed earnestly to God so that the Lord told Ananias that the identifying factor about him was that “he is praying” (Acts 9:11). Saul was at the crossroads in his life. He needed to engage with God for the way forward. We do not know precisely what Saul prayed for in those moments, but before he could get any believers like Ananias to minister to him, Saul learnt to cry to God all by himself. Life’s situations and challenges must make us run to God for solace, healing, direction, and supplies. When we pray, we invite God to intervene in our lives and the lives of others. Prayer changes our hearts to make us conformable to God’s will and aligns us with God’s purposes. Prayer opens doors that others will remain shut, prayers connect us to people who have what it takes to move us to our new level. Just as Saul’s prayers and Ananias’ obedience worked together, our prayers can pave the way for God’s will to unfold. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Take time today to pray for yourself and to bring your personal needs to God. Expect answers, for God answers prayer! PRAYER: Lord, thank You for hearing my prayers. Help me remember always to pray and believe you for answers when I pray. May my prayers prepare and change me to conform to your will. May my prayers move the resources of God, human and material, to my benefit. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 142: 1 Samuel 4 — The Ark Captured DAILY word study: PRAYING The Greek word used for “praying” in Acts 9:11 is proseuchomai, which means to speak or direct oneself to God in worship or petition. In Acts 9:11, God tells Ananias, “He is praying.” This word implies more than a one-time cry—it describes an active, ongoing posture of speaking with God. Saul, blind and waiting, prays not as a ritual but as a lifeline. His physical blindness did not block spiritual access; instead, it deepened his dependence on God. Reflection: When God says, “He is praying,” it’s not just information—it’s affirmation. Saul may have been cut off from people, but he was fully connected to God.
- Blinded to See: Finding Clarity in God's Call
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 21 2025 | Acts 9:5-9 KEY VERSE: “Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus." Acts 9:8 (NIV) MESSAGE: Saul’s physical blindness mirrored his spiritual condition. Though he had been zealous for God, he lacked the true vision of God’s purpose. Through his blindness, God humbled Saul, preparing him to see with his eyes and heart. This period of darkness became a catalyst for clarity as Saul encountered God’s transformative grace. Sometimes, we may also face seasons where we feel "blinded"—unable to see what lies ahead or understand God’s plans. These moments can be disorienting, but they’re also growth opportunities. We often find clarity and renewed purpose in our humility and dependence on God. Trust God in seasons of uncertainty. God intends for us to see not only with our eyes but also with our hearts. For with Him, vision is not only with the eyes but also with the heart. He places His plans in our hearts as we yield to Him, align our will, and open our eyes to see their manifestation with our involvement. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: When you cannot see ahead, seek God and align your heart to his will. Divine direction will come to you. PRAYER: Lord, when I cannot see the way forward, help me to trust You. Open the eyes of my heart to understand Your will and follow Your calling. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 141: 1 Samuel 3 — The Lord Calls Samuel DAILY word study: OPENED HIS EYES The Greek word translated as “opened his eyes” in Acts 9:8 is anoigō (ἀνοίγω), which means “to open” and often refers to giving access or understanding. In Acts 9:8, when Saul “opened his eyes,” the physical action carried spiritual weight. The word anoigō is used throughout Scripture not only for physical sight, but also for spiritual awareness (Luke 24:31, Acts 16:14). Saul’s eyes opened, but his vision did not return—because God was teaching him to look deeper than sight. Reflection: God sometimes allows us to lose what we trust so He can show us what we need. Real sight often begins where our strength ends.
- The Damascus Road: Encountering Jesus in Unexpected Ways
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 20 2025 | Acts 9:3-4 KEY VERSE: “As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’" Acts 9:3-4 (NIV) MESSAGE: Saul's journey to Damascus was interrupted by an encounter that would change his life forever. In his zeal, he thought he was serving God by persecuting Christians, but Jesus revealed the truth to him in a dramatic moment of divine intervention. This encounter reminds us that Jesus can reach us even in our rebellion, error, or pride, and radically turn our hearts back to Him. In our lives, we may also find ourselves heading in directions that seem right but are contrary to God’s plan. The grace of Jesus often meets us in unexpected ways—through a sudden realisation, a challenging situation, or a word from someone. Like Saul’s encounter, these moments invite us to realign our lives with God’s purpose. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Reflect on how Jesus has met you in unexpected ways. Are you zealously pursuing some venture or path you have not received clearance from God? Seek His face and realign your will to His purpose. Submit it to God for His approval. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, thank You for pursuing me even when I stray. Open my eyes to see Your truth and guide me to walk in Your will. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 140: 1 Samuel 2 - Hannah’s Song and Eli’s Wicked Sons DAILY word study: FLASHED The Greek word translated as “flashed” in Acts 9:3 is periastraptō (περιαστράπτω), which means “to flash around” or “to shine all about. This rare verb appears only in Acts 9:3. It expresses a burst of light that surrounds completely and unmistakably. Saul didn’t see a flicker - he was overtaken by glory. The light disrupted his mission, vision, and balance. Reflection: Jesus still shines with force. His presence doesn’t always whisper; sometimes it flashes. It exposes direction and demands a response. Ask yourself: when Jesus flashes light on your path, do you pause, or do you press ahead?
- Don't be Used to do Another's Bidding
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | May 19 2025 | Acts 9:1-2 KEY VERSE: “Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way… he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem." Acts 9:1-2 (NIV) MESSAGE: Before his dramatic conversion, Saul was zealously committed to the cause of the religious leaders who opposed Jesus. He believed he was serving God, but in truth, he was carrying out the agenda of those who rejected the Messiah. Though passionate and sincere, his actions were rooted in error, driven by human authority rather than divine direction. This serves as a warning: it is possible to be zealous yet entirely misled. Today’s devotional calls us to slow down, examine our motivations, and ask, am I doing what God desires, or am I just fulfilling someone else’s agenda? In a world full of pressure—social, religious, cultural - it’s easy to confuse God’s will with the loudest voices around us. Saul didn’t question the orders he received because they aligned with his upbringing and environment. But this is a time to step back and ask hard questions: Who influences my decisions? Am I following truth or tradition? Am I being used to serve a purpose that isn’t God's? These reflections lead us to repentance and redirection, just as they did for Saul on the road to Damascus. God eventually interrupted Saul’s journey with a blinding light and a convicting voice. We are offered a similar opportunity—not through dramatic visions, but through quiet conviction. When we humble ourselves before God, He shows us where we’ve strayed and gently calls us back to His path. We must be willing to stop, listen, and realign ourselves with the voice of Christ rather than the demands of others. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Take a step back, stop, and reconsider your actions and opinions. What motivates them? Are you doing God’s bidding, or you are in the shadows of executing someone’s agenda? Realign and seek God’s will, and act now. PRAYER: Lord, help me to see clearly whose voice I’m following. If I’m being used for purposes that are not Yours, open my eyes and redirect my steps. I want to do Your will, not simply please others. Lead me into truth and obedience.” For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 139: 1 Samuel 1 - Hannah’s Prayer and Samuel’s Birth DAILY word study: BREATHING The Greek word for breathing used in Acts 9:1 is empneō, which means “to breathe in or out.” It is used figuratively in this verse to show that Saul lived and moved in threat and violence, breathing it in deeply and breathing it out through his actions. This word paints a vivid picture—Saul wasn’t just speaking threats. He lived and breathed them. The air he took in and pushed out carried hostility toward Jesus's disciples. His zeal was full-bodied and constant, yet it had no divine approval. Reflection: Be mindful of what fills your inner life. What you breathe out in action often reveals what you’ve taken in from influence and conviction. Ask: Am I filled with the Spirit—or with someone else’s voice?











